The Friends of the Cabildo (FOC) Walking Tour Guide Training Program provides intensive and comprehensive training for tour guides.

The classes are under the expert direction of Mrs. Jane Molony, who is assisted by a staff of volunteer FOC tour guides. The program provides an intensive overview of Louisiana history. Lectures cover eleven subject areas: First Families of Louisiana (Native Americans); French Colonial Period; Spanish Colonial Period; Becoming American; The American Period; Free People of Color; Jazz; Port of New Orleans; Architecture; Civil War In New Orleans; Historical Center (Louisiana State Museum).

Trainees must complete a series of "tag alongs" with experienced FOC guides.

In addition to the academic component, trainees are provided training in presentation techniques, procedures for conducting tours, and other practical guidelines. An extensive reading list is also provided.

A group of tour guide trainees being instructed near the FOC office entrance on St. Peter Street.

Learn the diverse features the architecture of New Orleans has to offer, such as this example of wrought-iron grillwork used on the Cabildo (Arthur, Stanley Clisby, Old New Orleans, Pelican Publishing Company, 1990.)

Students are guided in the creation and practice of their own self-designed walking tours of the French Quarter. Students must pass a one-on-one tour with an evaluator, as well as a critique tour with a group under the observation of an evaluator. Students are prepared for a written examination conducted by the city of New Orleans as a prerequisite to obtaining a tour guide license.

Those who complete the program are encouraged to make a committment to the FOC to serve as a volunteer guides for a period of one to two years. Guides are generally on schedule one or two times per month during this period. The tuition cost for the program is $150.00.

Acceptance into the program is contingent upon an interview process following application.

Those interested in applying for the program should contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Enid Fahrenholt, at the Friends of the Cabildo office.

Address written inquiries to Friends of the Cabildo-Tours, 701 Chartres Street, New Orleans, LA 70116, phone: (504) 523-3939, FAX: (504) 524-9130 or send an E-Mail to enid@friendsofthecabildo.org.